A car crash in Merced can flip your life upside down in seconds. Whether you’re on Highway 99, Yosemite Parkway, or G Street, the aftermath of a collision brings chaos—medical bills, lost wages, insurance calls, and pain. Knowing what to do in the critical hours and days after a wreck can protect your rights and maximize your chance at full compensation. If you’ve been injured in a crash, speaking with a Merced car accident lawyer early can make a life-changing difference.
At Bojat Law Group, we help victims across Merced County hold negligent drivers accountable. Here’s your step-by-step guide on what to do after a car accident in Merced—and how to make sure you’re legally and financially protected.
Step 1: Get to Safety and Call 911
Your health comes first. Move your vehicle out of traffic if it’s safe. Then call 911 immediately—especially if anyone is injured or if the vehicles are severely damaged. Law enforcement will arrive on scene to complete a police report, which becomes a key piece of evidence in your case.
Don’t admit fault. Even saying “I’m sorry” could be twisted into an admission of liability later.
Step 2: Document the Scene
Before anything gets cleaned up or moved, take as many photos and videos as possible. Focus on:
- Damage to all vehicles
- Skid marks or road debris
- Traffic signs or signals nearby
- Visible injuries
- Weather and road conditions
If you’re too injured to do this, ask someone nearby to help. Also, get names and contact information from any witnesses before they leave.
Step 3: Exchange Information
Exchange the following with the other driver(s):
- Full name and contact info
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle make, model, and license plate
- Insurance provider and policy number
Avoid discussing the cause of the crash. Let the evidence and your lawyer do the talking later.
Step 4: Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you feel “fine,” get checked out by a doctor. Adrenaline can mask symptoms like internal bleeding, soft tissue damage, or concussions. Go to Mercy Medical Center Merced or an urgent care facility as soon as possible and keep a copy of all medical records, prescriptions, and doctor’s notes.
Delay can cost you—both physically and legally. Insurance companies may argue your injuries aren’t serious if you wait to seek treatment.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance—but Be Cautious
You’re required to notify your insurance company after a crash, but be brief and factual. Never agree to a recorded statement without legal advice. Avoid talking to the other driver’s insurance company altogether—especially if they offer you a fast settlement.
Fast means low. Once you accept, you waive your right to pursue the full value of your case.
Step 6: Keep All Records and Start a Crash File
Begin organizing all paperwork related to your accident in one place. This includes:
- Police report
- Medical records and bills
- Repair estimates
- Lost wage documentation
- Communication with insurance companies
- Photos or videos from the scene
Having detailed documentation strengthens your case and helps your attorney calculate the full extent of your damages.
Step 7: Consult a Merced Car Accident Lawyer
This is not the time to go it alone. California’s personal injury laws are complex—and insurance companies are trained to minimize payouts. At Bojat Law Group, our Merced car accident attorneys will:
- Investigate fault and gather key evidence
- Handle all communication with insurers
- Connect you with top medical providers
- Fight for compensation that includes medical costs, lost income, pain and suffering, and future care
You don’t pay us unless we win. That’s our No Win, No Fee promise.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Crash
Many injured drivers hurt their claims without realizing it. Avoid these common pitfalls:
- Waiting too long to file: California’s statute of limitations is generally 2 years for personal injury claims.
- Posting on social media: Insurers scour your profiles to find contradictions.
- Accepting the first settlement offer: It’s almost never what your case is actually worth.
- Handling your own claim: You may miss hidden damages or future costs.
How Long Do You Have to File a Claim?
In California, the statute of limitations for car accident claims is:
- 2 years from the date of the accident for personal injury
- 3 years for property damage
If a government vehicle is involved (e.g., city bus, Caltrans), you must file a claim within 6 months. That’s why hiring a lawyer quickly is critical—so deadlines don’t cost you your case.
How Much Compensation Can You Recover?
Compensation depends on many factors: severity of injuries, liability, lost income, medical bills, and future care needs. We’ve helped clients recover compensation for:
- Emergency room visits
- Surgery or physical therapy
- Emotional distress and PTSD
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Pain and suffering
Each case is unique. Let our legal team evaluate yours for free.
Call a Merced Car Accident Lawyer at Bojat Law Group
You didn’t ask to be injured. You shouldn’t have to pay the price. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a Merced car crash, don’t let the insurance company decide your future. Call a proven Merced car accident lawyer at Bojat Law Group today. We’ll give you honest answers, aggressive representation, and a clear path forward.